DESCRIPTION

A sequel to the 2006 game Glory of the Roman Empire, Imperium Romanum takes players back to the City of Seven Hills for another round of in-depth empire-building. Strategists begin as the governor of a Roman province, which they must then mold into a successful settlement through physical expansion, military might, and diplomatic relations. Players will be able to expand their city using bridges, forts, walls, and towers, and the new "settlers" resource allows for multiple paths to settlement growth. Gamers looking to flex their military muscles now have the ability to control armies in battle, fight with new units like mounted knights, build siege machines, and clash with a second type of barbarian. Economic and diplomatic factors have also been enhanced thanks to new trade mechanics, the effects of crime on city growth, and the introduction of an in-game currency.

Those looking to re-create the past can try Imperium Romanum's History Mode, which presents players with a timeline and missions based on historical events. Actual buildings from the era are also available, so players can visit Circus Maximus, as well as real theatres, stables, and schools. Gamers looking to build Rome in a day can also try out the interactive mission mode, which allows players to activate goals whenever they wish. All empires collapse though, so players must be prepared for natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, drought, and volcanoes, not to mention the omnipresent threat of barbarians at the gate. ~ Christopher Brown, All Game Guide